Is Depression a Disability?
In many cases, yes, depression can be considered a disability. According to Section 12102(1)(A) of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a person can be disabled if they have “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.” Under this standard, depression will generally be considered a disability if it substantially affects a person’s daily life. This is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Common Symptoms of Depression
Depression symptoms can vary from one person to another but often include:
- Feeling sad, empty, worthless, guilty, hopeless, anxious, restless, or irritable
- Being tearful
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Having a reduced appetite or increased food cravings (along with respective weight loss or gain)
- Thinking, speaking, or moving more slowly
- Having trouble focusing, making decisions, and remembering things
- Having recurring thoughts of death
When someone is in a depressive episode, they typically experience symptoms like these most of the day, almost every day. While some individuals only go through depression once, many people have numerous episodes throughout the course of their lives.
Offering Help for Individuals With Depression in Florida
If you’ve been diagnosed with depression or you’re experiencing the symptoms described above, we can help. Our therapists are highly experienced in treating depression and can provide you with the customized, compassionate care you deserve. Contact us today to get started—one of our knowledgeable team members will tell you more about our approach to treating depression, answer your questions, and arrange a time for you to attend an initial consultation.
Learn more about Depression Treatment in Florida here: https://caringtherapistsofbroward.com/depression-treatment
About the Author
Amanda Landry, LMHC, CAP, NCC Founder & CEO, Caring Therapists — Florida Group Practice
Amanda Landry is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Certified Addictions Professional (CAP), and National Certified Counselor (NCC), with over 18 years of experience helping teens, young adults, couples, and families navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and relational challenges. Her holistic approach blends evidence‑based therapies—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy—with yoga, meditation, and vegetarian wellness practices.
As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Caring Therapists, Amanda leads a thriving group practice with multiple locations across South Florida, including Fort Lauderdale, Wellington, Davie, Pembroke Pines, Coral Springs, Sunrise, Hollywood, and Palm Beach Gardens. Her leadership emphasizes clinical quality, community connection, and accessibility, with an emphasis on serving local South Florida communities.
Amanda is also a published author of Guided Journal for Women with Anxiety (2022), and she created My Private Practice Collective, an online community and resource hub for therapists establishing or expanding their practices. As a Qualified Supervisor, she mentors and supervises new clinicians seeking licensure and growth in their therapeutic careers.